Refrigeration is a process of moving
heat from one location to another in controlled conditions. The work of heat transport is traditionally driven by
mechanical work, but can also be driven by heat,
magnetism,
electricity,
laser, or other means. Refrigeration has many applications, including, but not limited to: household
refrigerators, industrial
freezers,
cryogenics, and
air conditioning.
Heat pumps may use the heat output of the refrigeration process, and also may be designed to be reversible, but are otherwise similar to refrigeration units.